IMO Finalises Draft Workplan on Safety Rules for Battery, Wind and Nuclear-Powered Vessels

The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC) has agreed on a draft workplan to develop a comprehensive safety regulatory framework for ships using new technologies and alternative fuels aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The draft workplan will be submitted to the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee at its 111th session (MSC 111) for approval in May 2026.

The agreed workplan focuses on the development and amendment of safety regulations covering nuclear-powered ships, wind-propelled and wind-assisted vessels, as well as the use of lithium-ion batteries and swappable traction battery containers on board ships. These areas fall under the technical responsibility of the SDC Sub-Committee and reflect the growing adoption of alternative propulsion and energy systems in global shipping.

The workplan was finalised during the 12th session of the SDC Sub-Committee, which was held in London from 19 to 23 January. Speaking at the close of the meeting, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez described the completion of the draft workplan as a “major achievement,” noting that safety regulations must advance alongside rapid technological developments driven by the IMO’s Strategy on the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships.

Following endorsement by the Maritime Safety Committee, the IMO will work toward a series of key regulatory milestones. In 2028, at MSC 111, amendments to SOLAS regulation II-1/41 are expected to be adopted to allow batteries to be used as the main source of electrical power and lighting systems on ships. In 2029, at MSC 116, interim guidelines for the safety of ships using wind propulsion and wind-assisted power are planned for approval. By 2030, at MSC 118, the IMO aims to adopt a revised Nuclear Code along with amendments to SOLAS chapter VIII.

To support this process, the Sub-Committee has established the SDC Correspondence Group on GHG Safety. The group has been tasked with compiling and analysing information related to nuclear and wind-powered ships, as well as preparing draft amendments to SOLAS regulation II-1/41 concerning the use of batteries as primary electrical power sources. The Correspondence Group is expected to submit a written report to the next session of the Sub-Committee, SDC 13, scheduled for 2027.